James Frew Ltd

James Frew Ltd: integrated building services in Scotland since 1911

James Frew Ltd is a Scottish building services and integrated property solutions company, founded in 1911. Based in Stevenston, North Ayrshire, it serves both the domestic and commercial and public sectors across the west, central and south of Scotland, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, Dumfries & Galloway and surrounding areas. The company presents itself as one of the largest employers in the region, with more than 400 employees.

Specialities: heating, plumbing and electrical

James Frew's main activity covers the installation and maintenance of heating and plumbing systems, electrical and fire safety services, as well as property maintenance and improvement works. Heating services include boiler care, installation, replacement and emergency call-out, plus finance options for their purchase. The company also offers plumbing and drainage services, and carries out electrical installations and fire alarm systems.

Renewables and energy efficiency

James Frew incorporates renewable energy solutions, such as the installation of air source heat pumps and solar panels, alongside home insulation and energy grant management. These services aim to reduce consumption and improve property efficiency.

Boiler care plans

The company markets three boiler care plans under the name Home Plans by James Frew, aimed at both homeowners and landlords. The Bronze plan costs £9.99 per month, with a fixed repair fee of £125. The Silver plan costs £19.99 per month and the Gold plan, recommended, £24.49 per month. The plans include maintenance of the central heating system, annual service, maintenance of the home's electrical installation, parts and labour cover, and drainage and internal plumbing maintenance. The terms and conditions detail limitations, such as that appliances must be CE approved, that gas fires can be included for £8.50 per month each with a £100 limit on parts per repair, and that electrical parts are limited to £200 per repair.

Projects and clients

James Frew works for private house developers, main contractors and social housing providers. Among the projects the company highlights are the installation of air source heat pumps at Jackton Manor & The Kings (Troon), and works at West Kilbride and Skelmorlie primary schools, as well as at Tarryholme and Butterbiggins Road. The company states that it has served more than 200 customers this year and has more than 150 clients across the UK.

Training and professional development

The company runs an apprenticeship programme through The James Frew Academy, with the aim of training new professionals in the sector. In August 2026 it welcomed new modern apprentices. It has also worked with Babcock to support two apprentices in its managed learning programme (MLP) towards ACS Gas qualification, and intervened so that an apprentice in Stranraer could continue their training after the loss of ECO funding from their previous employer.

History and structure

Founded in 1911 by the great-grandfather of the current managing director, Roddy Frew, the company passed into the hands of the founder's son, Alexander Frew, between 1946 and 1975. Subsequently, under the direction of Richard Frew between 1975 and 2009, the company experienced great expansion. Today, Roddy Frew heads the company, which has offices in the Central Belt of Scotland and a workforce of more than 400 employees. James Frew Ltd is registered in Scotland with company number SC036286 and its registered office is at 83 New Street, Stevenston, Ayrshire, KA20 3HD.

Finance and legal aspects

James Frew Ltd (FRN 918013) acts as a designated representative of Tradehelp Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 697812). The company introduces clients to TradeHelp Ltd without receiving a commission for doing so. TradeHelp Ltd is a credit broker, not a lender, and offers loans from Novuna Personal Finance, a trading name of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC, also authorised and regulated by the FCA. Finance options are subject to approval and credit checks, with a 14-day cooling-off period.

Location and contact

83 New Street, Stevenston, North Ayrshire, Scotland, KA20 3HD · Phone: 01294 468113 · Email: info@jamesfrew.co.uk